Vagina Talks: The Japanese Guide To Embracing Menopause With Grace

In Japan, the journey through menopause, known as konenki, is often perceived with a sense of growth, rebirth, and renewed purpose. This cultural perspective significantly influences how Japanese women experience and navigate this life stage, as it’s viewed as the spring that follows winter—a season of metamorphosis, a second wind—not a decline.

Konenki focuses on the new opportunities that come with menopause.

The term konenki translates to "renewal years" or "a time of regeneration," reflecting a positive outlook on this phase in womanhood. Unlike in some Western cultures, where menopause is often viewed negatively, Japanese society tends to regard it as a natural and anticipated transition. This cultural attitude contributes to a more accepting and less distressing experience for many women.

Food for Thought

Studies have shown that Japanese women report fewer and less severe menopausal symptoms compared to their Western counterparts. Notably, the prevalence of hot flashes among Japanese women is significantly lower. According to a study on Japanese menopause from Princeton University, only about 9.5% of Japanese women experience hot flashes compared to much higher percentages in Western populations. 75-80% of American women reportedly experience moderate to severe hot flashes, according to the National Institutes of Health.

One contributing factor to this difference may be nutrition. The traditional Japanese diet is rich in soy products, which contain isoflavones—compounds with estrogen-like properties. This high soy intake is believed to alleviate menopausal symptoms. As Dr. Margaret Lock, a medical anthropologist at McGill University, notes, "The low frequency of menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes, among Japanese women has been ascribed to high consumption of soy products." To add to that, edamame, soy beverages and sauces, plus fermented soy beans are part of their daily dishes.

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Life Goes On

While hot flashes are less common, Japanese women often report other symptoms such as shoulder stiffness and feelings of chilliness. Despite experiencing these symptoms, many do not seek medical consultation. A survey by Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare revealed that although a significant number of women recognized menopausal symptoms, only a small percentage sought medical advice. For instance, among women in their fifties, 38.3% thought they might have menopausal symptoms, but only 9.1% consulted a doctor.

This reluctance to seek medical help may stem from cultural norms that encourage endurance and a perception of menopause as a natural process and not something that requires medical intervention. Emiko, a 52-year-old from Tokyo, shares her perspective: "Menopause is a natural part of aging. I experienced some shoulder stiffness, but it wasn't something I felt needed a doctor's attention." Similarly, Yuki, 49, from Osaka, reflects, "I had some mild symptoms, like feeling cold more often. But in our culture, we are taught to accept these changes as part of life."

Dr. Hiroshi Yamamoto, a gynecologist specializing in menopausal care, observes, "Many Japanese women view menopause as a natural transition and often do not seek medical assistance unless symptoms are severe. This cultural acceptance, combined with dietary factors, seems to contribute to a generally smoother menopausal experience."

Menopause in Japan signals new ways of taking care of the self.

New Life Blooms 

Mind over matter also rings true, as konenki is all about perspective. Instead of focusing on the seeming death of youth, this path tends to focus on new opportunities: freedom from menstruation, a new set of personal objectives, self-care, and the birth of new wisdom. In Japan, they see menopause as a season to apply new ways of caring for the body, such as incorporating traditional Kampo medicine (ancient holistic and natural remedies), mindful dietary consumption, and soft, gentle exercises. These practices show that Japanese women tend to lean in this natural transition, instead of resisting or rejecting it. 

Yuki shares, “There is not much we can do with aging and menopause. It’s simply a part of life. Resistance takes too much energy. There is beauty when you just flow, when you embrace the seasons that come.”

Transitioning to menopause can be filled with grace and resilience.

Attitude of Gratitude 

Menopause in Japan is not seen as an ending but a phase of renewal. The proverbs "rokujuu no tenarai" (“learning at sixty”) highlights that every stage of life brings new opportunities for growth and discovery, and "toshi o totte koso wakaru" (only with age comes understanding), reinforces the idea that this phase of life brings wisdom and personal growth.

Instead of fearing menopause, Japanese culture embraces it as a natural transformation. To even endure this long in life is a reason to celebrate and show thoughtful gratitude. Attitude truly matters; it can drive one to navigate this transition with resilience and grace.